Frequently Asked Questions
Most frequent questions and answers
What level of book printing quality can I expect?
This is the biggest concern that clients have when book printing overseas. You assume that since you are getting a great price on book printing, the quality will be low. In fact, you receive as good or often even better quality by printing overseas. The machinery used by overseas book printers is virtually the same as what is used in North America. Not only have overseas book printers invested in state-or-the-art equipment, they put a lot of time and effort making sure that employees are carefully trained on the equipment being used. Finally, employees are encouraged to take pride in their work and quality control is of the utmost importance.
Will I need to communicate directly with the overseas book printer? How is their customer service?
You do not need to communicate directly with the overseas book printer. Callawind does that for you. We have dealt with production and sales support at our chosen overseas book printers for many years. We know them and they know us. We want to provide the best customer service to our clients. That’s what we look for in an overseas book printing partner. When we need information from our overseas book printers, we get answers most often within 24 hours. The staff we deal with is friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, and will go above and beyond to make us and our clients happy. The work ethic is truly impressive.
Why should I consider printing in China?
There are several reasons why our clients print a book in China. The main reason is price. Offset book printing in North America is expensive. This is especially true if you are printing a full-color, hardcover book with coated paper. China printing is usually 40% less expensive than book printing in Canada or the US. Even if you add shipping, duties, and sales tax (where applicable), you still save considerably.
Overseas book printers can do a variety of special binding and printing effects at very little extra cost compared to North American printers.
Do I need to arrange for customs brokerage myself to ship books to North America or Europe?
No, our overseas book printer will prepare all the paperwork and coordinate the book shipment with their export department. In addition, the export department will work in conjunction with their customs broker representative in each country.
Book shipments are typically quoted as “DDP” (delivery and duty paid), and included in our book production quotes.
For book shipments to the US, you will need to provide your EIN number.
For book shipments to Canada, you will need to obtain a GST/HST business number and register as a Canadian importer. Visit your province’s government website to easily obtain these numbers.
How long does book printing in China take?
On average, figure about 8 to 10 weeks. Usually, a book can be printed and bound in about 4 to 5 weeks from the time printing files are submitted. This includes generating and reviewing the printer proofs, through to printing and binding the finished books.
Depending on where you are located, shipping on average is another 4 to 5 weeks.
Isn’t shipping books from overseas expensive?
Relatively speaking, no. Book shipments are loaded onto container ships, and the cost per square foot is inexpensive.
What is book overrun and underrun?
It is standard practice for the book printing industry to deliver either more books (overrun) or less books (underrun) than you have ordered. Depending on the printer, the overrun or underrun will be 5 to 10% of the order quantity.
Usually, there is a small overrun of books. Printers tend to print more copies than ordered in case some books are damaged during production. For example, if you order 3,000 books,with a 5% overrun, you may receive and be invoiced for up to 150 extra books. These overrun books are typically priced at a lower cost per book. Underruns occur less often—when there are more damaged books than the printer planned for.
Isn’t shipping books from overseas expensive?
Relatively speaking, no. Book shipments are loaded onto container ships, and the cost per square foot is inexpensive.
12 FAQ About Book Printing
- How does online book printing differ from factory printing?
Online book printing is a digital printing process that allows books to be printed quickly and affordably from the convenience of a computer or mobile device. In contrast, factory printing involves the use of large printing presses and specialized equipment, which can be a more time-consuming and expensive process.
- What are the benefits of using an online book printer?
Some of the benefits of using an online book printer include convenience, cost savings, a wider range of customization options, and faster turnaround times.
- Can online book printers produce high-quality prints?
While the quality of online book printing has improved significantly in recent years, it may not be as high as the quality of prints produced using a factory printing press. However, many online book printers now offer high-quality prints that are comparable to those produced by factory printing presses.
- How much does it cost to print a book using an online printer?
The cost of printing a book using an online printer will vary depending on factors such as the number of pages, the number of copies, the type of paper and cover, and any additional customization options. However, online book printers are generally able to offer their services at a lower cost than factory printers due to lower overhead costs.
- What are the different options for customization available with online book printing?
Online book printers typically offer a range of customization options, such as different paper types, cover styles, and binding options. This allows authors and publishers to create a book that is unique and tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
- Can online book printers handle large print runs?
Many online book printers are able to handle large print runs, although the exact maximum number of copies may vary depending on the printer. Some online printers may require large print runs to be split into multiple smaller orders.
- How long does it typically take to print a book using an online printer?
The turnaround time for online book printing will vary depending on the printer and the complexity of the order. However, most online printers are able to print and ship books within a few days, providing a faster turnaround time than factory printing.
- Are there any limitations to the types of books that can be printed online?
Most online book printers are able to handle a wide range of book types and formats, including novels, non-fiction books, children’s books, and illustrated books. However, some printers may have limitations on the size or complexity of books that they can handle.
- Can online book printers print books with color images?
Yes, many online book printers are able to print books with color images. Some printers may offer different printing options, such as full-color printing or spot color printing, depending on the needs of the book.
- Can online book printers handle different binding options, such as saddle-stitch or perfect binding?
Yes, most online book printers offer a range of binding options, including saddle-stitch, perfect binding, and case binding. Authors and publishers can choose the binding option that is best suited to their book.
- Can online book printers provide proof copies before printing the full run?
Yes, many online book printers offer the option to print proof copies before printing the full run of a book. This allows authors and publishers to review the book and make any necessary changes before printing the final copies.
- Are there any additional services offered by online book printers, such as design or formatting assistance?
Some online book printers may offer additional services, such as design assistance or formatting support. This can be helpful for authors and publishers
